NATCHITOCHES – Tickets are on sale for the annual Northwestern State/Independence Bowl Kickoff Luncheon, sponsored by John and Lynne Manno, in Shreveport.
 
The preseason football staple is set for Aug. 22 in Ballroom B inside Superior's Steakhouse, located at 855 Pierremont Avenue in Shreveport. The luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., one week ahead of NSU's Aug. 29 season opener at Tulsa.
 
Cost for the all-inclusive lunch is $20 and includes, salad, a plated meal and dessert. Reservations are being accepted by contacting the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl office at 318-221-0721. Attendees are asked to bring cash or check to the event.
 
"This event is something our department looks forward to being involved with," Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian said. "The Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl and Northwestern State Athletics are longstanding partners who have created a mutually beneficial relationship centered around the start of football season. We have always worked extremely closely and extremely well with (Independence Bowl Executive Director) Missy Setters and her staff. This kickoff to football season is one of the longer standing traditions for us and for the Shreveport community, which means so much to Northwestern State from a current student and from an alumni standpoint. We are eager to connect with our fan base and allow them to hear from coach McCorkle about the 2024 season."
 
The luncheon features Bostian, first-year Demon head coach Blaine McCorkle and members of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl staff. Bostian and McCorkle will preview the 2024 Northwestern State season while bowl staffers will give updates on the 48^th annual Independence Bowl, which will be played Dec. 28 at 8:15 p.m. inside Shreveport's Independence Stadium.